Mary Allen
Tooth decay in dogs is more of a rarity. But when it occurs, it’s just as painful as it is for us.
While over 90 percent of us humans struggle with this disease of the teeth, tooth decay only affects a few four-legged friends. That’s the good news. Although the reason for this has not yet been fully clarified, the shape and position of the teeth and the usually low sugar intake of dogs play an important role.
The bad news, however, is that tooth decay is just as painful for our four-legged friends as it is for humans. They only show it less!
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And that brings us to the next catch: Which one of us regularly checks and looks for conspicuous discolorations in the depths of Rex’s biting tool?! Just. But it is precisely there that bacteria with suitable breeding grounds (food residues) can destroy the tooth enamel over time in the sometimes deep indentations of the chewing surfaces. Incidentally, this hardest layer and a protective shield of the tooth is many times thinner than in humans.
In the underlying dentin, the bacteria then spread rapidly in the direction of the dental pulp and the dental nerve. End that hurts! That is why regular and professional check-ups of the teeth by the veterinarian are at least as important as preventive cleaning when brushing your teeth.
Tooth Decay in Dogs: These are the Facts…
- Only about 5% of our dogs suffer from tooth decay.
- This disease of the teeth is probably just as painful for the four-legged friend as for us humans, only they do not show it so clearly.
- Sugary foods and sweets are not suitable for dogs for this reason alone.
- In dogs, caries is mainly found on the chewing surfaces of the molars.
- The protective tooth enamel is much thinner in dogs than in humans.
- Regular check-ups at the veterinarian and preventive brushing protect your dog’s teeth.
- With early detection and appropriate veterinary measures, the tooth can be preserved.